Retinal artery embolization complicating Libman-Sacks endocarditis in a systemic lupus erythematosus patient

Abstract

Libman-Sacks endocarditis (LSE) is the most characteristic cardiac manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It is usually clinically silent but heart failure due to valvular dysfunction, secondary infective endocarditis and embolic phenomena can complicate valvular abnormalities. We present a patient with SLE and blindness due to right central retinal artery occlusion. Echocardiographic examination revealed a verrucous vegetation on the posterior mitral valve leaflet consistent with LSE. Anticoagulation therapy was started. Echocardiographic regression of the vegetation was observed and there has been no recurrence of thromboembolic events to date.